White Rock lake, lower spillway steps
Photo story
Photo 1:
Behemoth
I thought it was just another slider or cooter climbing out of the water and up the concrete. When I realized this massive creature was different, my heart started racing. I'd never seen a snapper this close. The legs of a great egret are much further back in the upper right corner of this photo to give some perspective.
Photo 2:
Leeches
On the back of the snapper's neck, was a entangled mess of leeches. I didn't see them until processing the photos. Did a bit of research and apparently they don't really harm large animals such as this one. Bottom dwelling turtle species tend to get the most leeches with snapping turtles carrying the largest load.

Photo 3:
Snapper Closeup
Those are some large toenails and a really big head. Note the upturned nostrils. All the better to hide buried in mud with only your nostrils above the water.

Photo 4:
It Heard Me
I was having to take these shots between wrought iron railings which was difficult. Often I could not get the whole turtle in the frame. It had been going sideways along the concrete but apparently it heard my camera and started to turn in my direction.

Photo 5:
What Is That Sound?
It started turning its head this way and that as though trying to figure out where the sound was coming from.
Photo 6:
Big Smile For The Camera
This is the moment when the snapper spotted me. Chuckled a bit because it looked like it was saying cheese for the camera. In truth, this is just how it's mouth looks when looking straight at me. I was used to large turtle individuals (sliders, cooters, softshells) being bold and not afraid of me. I was frustrated with not being able to get the shots I wanted when limited to between railings. So I thought I would stand on tiptoes and put my camera lens thru the iron circles at the top of the fence as I have done in the past for a more clear shot. The snappers reaction to this took me by surprise. As the camera slid thru the circle and before I could even get into position, the turtle freaked out. With my mouth hanging open in astonishment, I saw the turtle instantly propel itself up and backwards in a perfect backflip right into the waters and disappear from sight. Never saw it surface again. My hand was not on the shutter and I missed the shot. Had no idea it could move that fast. I never got a chance to photograph the tail which might have given me the gender. I should have stayed where I was & enjoyed the encounter longer. Oh well, live and learn. All in all it was a thrilling experience.

Question, isn't this species supposed to be called Eastern Snapping Turtle now?